During the mid-1960s, the prior non-competition pact adopted by the Big Three had essentially disintegrated, as increasingly open factory-based support was provided to supposedly independent racers. Ford in particular faced stiff competition from Chrysler in NASCAR competition, and the Ford camp needed a new engine, but NASCAR rules demanded that at least 500 similar cars be built and made available to the public.Ford’s solution was to develop a new 429 cubic inch engine with all-new, free-flowing cylinder heads. An aluminum high-rise intake manifold, a 735 cfm Holley carburetor, 11.0:1 compression, header-style exhaust manifolds and a beefy four-bolt main block rounded out the engine, which was conservatively rated at 375 horsepower. Rather than install the new engine in the midsize Torino, Ford dropped it into the Mustang, thereby creating the ultimate pony car. To handle the power, the stout “Toploader” four-speed manual transmission and a 3.91:1 Traction-Lok rear axle were mandatory options. Other features included an engine oil cooler, a trunk-mounted battery, a competition suspension with front and rear anti-roll bars, power front disc brakes and fat F60 X 15 tires.The production process required many modifications to accommodate the new engine, including cutting and relocating the shock towers. To alleviate the in-house production burden, Ford shipped the cars for conversion to Kar Kraft in Brighton, Michigan. At $4,087, the Boss 429 was the priciest non-Shelby Mustang to date and was available in very limited
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production with less than 900 examples produced for the 1969 model year. Finished in dark red with a black vinyl interior, this example shows just 28,169 miles today. It received a ground-up restoration performed to very high standards, with an arrow-straight body and show-quality chrome and paintwork. The undercarriage is equally impressive, as is the highly detailed engine bay, which includes the correct emissions equipment and all proper tags and markings. The interior is also “as new” in presentation and well equipped with bucket seats, a floor console, a wood-trimmed steering wheel and clean, clear gauges. The car also includes such desirable features as an AM radio, power brakes, power steering, a front spoiler and Magnum 500 chrome wheels with Goodyear raised white-letter tires. This excellent Boss Mustang is fully supported by extensive factory documentation. It is the ultimate example of the ultimate big-block Mustang, the Boss 429.